Slight was the only Toreador to qualify for state in girls’ competition.

Freshman runners finished 1-2-3 in the 4-kilometer run and Dallas Center-Grimes’ Madison Waymire was the best-finishing senior runner as she wound up sixth overall behind a pair of sophomores.

Pella’s Tess Roorda was the overall champion in 14:36.5, less than two seconds ahead of Joy Ripslinger of Davenport Assumption.

Slight ran 14:58.6 to beat Lily Horst of Vinton-Shellsburg by an even second and Abby Kohut-Jackson of Ballard by more than three seconds.

“It’s surprising how many young runners you see competing at state – especially for the girls,” Boone Coach Angie McGrath said. “Sometimes it’s tough when the expectation is set so high so early on.

“Dianna has continued to rise to the occasion every race and this race was no different. We were looking to be top five and as the race progressed it became clear she was going to make that happen.

“I was thrilled for Dianna.”

As for Slight, she admitted to experiencing some state meet jitters.

“It was nerve-racking seeing all the fans and all the runners, especially at the beginning,” she said. “But when the race started it felt just like any other race.

“It felt great crossing the finish line knowing I gave it everything I had.”

While it was a thrill for the freshman to compete in the state meet, she’s already starting to look ahead.

“This really motivates me to work hard and, hopefully, come back next year with the team” Slight said.

McGrath knows there’s a lot of work ahead.

“With so many young runners finishing near the front at state this year, Dianna will have her work cut out for the next three years racing with this talent. That can be mentally tough, but also very motivating,” McGrath said.

McGrath is also counting on Slight’s state run this year will motivate the entire Toreador team.

“I think it gives us something to work for,” she said. “Competing without a team can be intimidating and Dianna handled it well. She was lucky to have all her varsity teammates there to support her and help her with some pre-race warm ups.

“I have every varsity runner returning next year and each girl has made it clear they don’t intend to send her alone next year. They want to be there with her.”

Decorah won the team state title by criteria after tying with MOC-Floyd Valley at the top of the 15-team field. Each had 108 points.